Genres

It hardly seems possible, but The Wires second season is even better than the first. The visual novel concept of this masterful HBO series is taken even further in a rich, labyrinthine plot revolving around the longshoremen of Baltimores struggling cargo docks, where corruption, smuggling, and murder draw the attention of detective McNulty (Dominic West). What follows is a series of events which at first seem unrelated (including 13 bodies found in a cargo container), and then the ongoing effort to topple the drug empire of Stringer Bell (Idris Elba) and the imprisoned Avon Barksdale (Wood Harris), whose business is suffering from short supply, high demand, and disruption of distribution. The dutiful diligence of a Marine Police Patrol Officer and the moral outrage of the longshoremens union leader are also factored into the suspicious goings-on at the loading docks, and what unfolds in these 12 episodes is an American crime epic easily on par with the Godfather saga. Yes, its that good.Detailed synopsis is pointless The Wire must be seen, heard, and absorbed to fully appreciate the way in which over 40 characters are flawlessly incorporated into a sprawling but tightly disciplined plot that deals, in the larger sense, with the deindustrialization of America and the struggle of longshoremen in a changing economical climate. Offering a privileged and occasionally frightening glimpse of the inner workings of shipping ports and cargo transports, The Wire is also a detailed expos of organized crime and blue-collar corruption, and an authentic, well-informed study of political maneuvering among police and city officials. Theres not a single false note to be found in the cast, direction, or writing of this phenomenal series, hailed by many critics as the best show on television. With all due respect to HBOs other excellent series, The Wire tops them all.